In a brief statement detailing the news, Rockstar said that Red Dead Online is "an evolution of the classic multiplayer experience in the original Red Dead Redemption, blending narrative with competitive and cooperative gameplay in fun new ways."

"Using the gameplay of the upcoming Red Dead Redemption 2 as a foundation, Red Dead Online will be ready to be explored alone or with friends, and will also feature constant updates and adjustments to grow and evolve this experience for all players."

Red Dead Online will initially launch as a public beta, available to anyone that owns a copy of Red Dead Redemption 2. Rockstar said that "as with most online experiences of this size and scale, there will inevitably be some turbulence at launch. We look forward to working with our amazing and dedicated community to share ideas, help us fix teething problems and work with us to develop Red Dead Online into something really fun and innovative."

Using the map of Red Dead Redemption 2 as a backdrop, Red Dead Online will let players roam online solo or as part of a gang

Red Dead Online will use the huge map of Red Dead Redemption 2 as a backdrop to the multiplayer mode and while specific details are yet to be revealed, there is a good chance that Red Dead Online will take some cues from Rockstar's phenomenally successful Grand Theft Auto Online.

GTA Online currently allows 30 players to roam the map, engaging in jobs and activities across the city of Los Santos in an effort to build their crime empire. Through its constant updates since its initial release in 2013, with new modes, vehicles and weapons added on a regular basis, GTA Online broke its own player record earlier this year.